Boarding House

This wooden manor leans slightly with age, its timbers softened by years of humid air. Vines climb the exterior walls, mingling with moss and lichen that cling to its surface. A wide porch wraps around the front, adorned with creaky rocking chairs and a scattering of muddy boots left by previous guests. The building exudes a humble charm, though an air of mystery lingers, particularly on fog-laden nights when the surrounding swamp seems to creep closer.

Inside, the Boarding House is dimly lit by lanterns in a large common area that serves as the central gathering point. The communal dining hosts both boarders and orphans with daily meal service, while the scent of dried herbs and woodsmoke from the kitchen fills the air. Upstairs, small bedrooms with simple wooden furniture offer weary travelers a place to rest. The walls, worn smooth from years of use, seem to hold the whispers of countless stories, creating an atmosphere of both comfort and quiet unease.

Intended Use of the Map

The Boarding House serves as a communal setting, ideal for fostering roleplay and interactions between players and NPCs. Its various rooms and shared spaces provide an excellent backdrop for adventurers to meet key NPCs, gather quests, and uncover local stories or secrets. The common areas, such as the dining room, music room, and front porch, encourage meaningful dialogue, while private rooms allow for discreet conversations or intrigue. The second-floor single rooms are perfect for moments of solitude or exploration, where characters might discover personal belongings or clues tied to the boarding house’s inhabitants.

In more tense scenarios, the map transitions seamlessly into a battleground for heightened encounters. The Boarding House might be the site of a rescue mission, with adventurers racing to free boarders or children held hostage in their rooms. Alternatively, it could be the stage for a defensive stand, as the players protect the house against bandits, kidnappers, or dark forces targeting its residents. The layout, with its narrow halls and multiple access points, lends itself to strategic combat or stealthy maneuvers during such conflicts. The juxtaposition of cozy, domestic spaces with potential danger adds tension and stakes to any encounter.

Whether your adventure focuses on narrative interactions or urgent action, the Boarding House offers an adaptable, richly detailed setting to immerse your players.